AutoCAD I: Introduction
ARCH-40001
Course Duration: 2.5 weeks
Suggested Prerequisite: Good command of the Windows environment.
Quarters Offered: Winter | Spring | Summer | Fall
Build a strong foundation in computer-aided design with this hands-on introduction to AutoCAD. Designed for beginners, this course walks you step-by-step through the core tools, commands, and workflows used by professionals in architecture, engineering, construction, and related fields. You’ll become comfortable navigating the AutoCAD interface while learning essential skills such as drawing, modifying, dimensioning, layering, text annotation, and plotting.
Course Details
Through guided practice and real-world exercises, you’ll create drafting symbols, kitchen and bath fixtures, and ultimately develop a complete residential floor plan. Along the way, you’ll assemble your work into a polished construction document set—mirroring the process professionals use every day. Video demonstrations, quizzes, discussions, and regular instructor feedback support your learning and help you apply concepts with confidence.
By the end of the course, you’ll have practical experience producing accurate 2D drawings and organizing them into professional deliverables. Whether you’re starting a new career or adding CAD skills to your current role, this course gives you the technical foundation to move forward with clarity and confidence.
What You'll Learn
- Navigate the AutoCAD interface and use core drawing and modification tools
- Create and organize drawings using layers, text, and dimensioning standards
- Develop drafting symbols, fixtures, and architectural elements
- Produce a complete 2D floor plan and assemble a professional construction document
- Plot and present drawings accurately for print or digital submission
Course Information
- This is an accredited course and is open to all adult learners that meet the prerequisites.
- Students must be enrolled by 5pm PT, one day prior to the course start date, due to the enrollment process and the short duration of the course.
- This course is administered through the Virtual Design & Construction Institute's (VDCI) online portal: ucsdextension.matrixlms.com.
- Once enrolled, students have access to course video instruction for 30 days.
Hardware, Software Requirement:
- Students should have a basic knowledge of computers including knowledge of how to download files. A PC with a supported, current version of Windows is required.
- Autodesk AutoCAD Software
- Students enrolled in the CAD/BIM Certificate program will have free access to the student software. Proof of certificate enrollment is required (certificate verification PDF available through MyExtension).
- Students enrolled in individual courses will not have free access and can sign up for a free trial or purchase the software.
- Instructions for downloading Autodesk AutoCAD software will be provided on the first day of class.
Textbook
- No textbook is required but there may be recommended texts for additional study.
Series
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Next Course: The next course in the CAD series is AutoCAD II: Intermediate.
Course sessions
Section ID:
Class type:
This course is entirely web-based and to be completed asynchronously between the published course start and end dates. Synchronous attendance is NOT required.
You will have access to your online course on the published start date OR 1 business day after your enrollment is confirmed if you enroll on or after the published start date.
Textbooks:
All course materials are included unless otherwise stated.
Policies:
- No refunds after: 4/7/2026
- Early enrollment advised
- No UCSD parking permit required
- No visitors permitted
- Pre-enrollment required
Schedule:
Instructor:
David Sellers
David Sellers received his Professional Bachelor of Architecture degree from Penn State University and is the Curriculum Manager at Virtual Design and Construction Institute. At VDCI, David works extensively with Autodesk software, and has 10+ years working with AutoCAD. In addition to teaching with UC San Diego Extended Studies, David is also regularly teaching at VDCI and Makerplace, a local maker space in San Deigo. David is an Autodesk Certified Instructor and is actively working with NCARB to receive his Architectural License in California.